Meaning: This quote by Michel de Certeau, a French Jesuit scholar, philosopher, and theologian, delves into the concepts of laziness, morality, and the nature of work. It highlights the idea that both the lazy man and the dying man are perceived as immoral, albeit in different ways. The lazy man is seen as immoral because he does not engage in work, while the dying man is viewed as immoral because he can no longer contribute to or be acted upon by others. This quote invites us to reflect on the societal attitudes towards productivity, labor, and the value of human life.

The comparison drawn between the lazy man and the dying man is thought-provoking, as it challenges conventional notions of morality and work. In many societies, there is a strong emphasis on the virtue of hard work and productivity. Those who do not actively participate in the workforce or contribute to the economy are often stigmatized as lazy or immoral. However, Certeau's juxtaposition of the lazy man with the dying man forces us to question this perspective. It prompts us to consider the inherent worth and dignity of individuals beyond their capacity for labor.

The lazy man is described as a "subject that does not work," implying that he is capable of working but chooses not to. This characterization aligns with the traditional understanding of laziness as a moral failing – a refusal to exert effort or fulfill one's responsibilities. The use of the word "subject" here is significant, as it suggests a certain agency or autonomy on the part of the lazy man. He is portrayed as actively choosing not to work, thereby positioning himself as the agent of his own idleness.

In contrast, the dying man is depicted as an "object that no longer even makes itself available to be worked on by others." This portrayal highlights the loss of agency and autonomy that comes with the dying process. Unlike the lazy man, the dying man is not portrayed as actively choosing his condition. Instead, he is depicted as being acted upon – or rather, no longer being acted upon – by others. The use of the word "object" in this context underscores the idea of the dying man as a passive entity, no longer able to engage with or contribute to the world around him.

Certeau's comparison serves to challenge the traditional moral judgments placed upon the lazy individual. By aligning the lazy man with the dying man, he prompts us to reevaluate our attitudes towards laziness and idleness. This quote encourages us to consider the complex factors that may underlie a person's apparent lack of productivity, and to question the morality of condemning individuals based solely on their capacity for work.

Furthermore, the quote raises important ethical questions about the value of human life, particularly in relation to productivity and labor. In a society that often equates worth with economic contribution, the quote challenges us to recognize the inherent dignity and value of individuals, regardless of their ability or willingness to engage in labor. It urges us to rethink our understanding of morality and the ways in which we assess the worth of others.

In conclusion, Michel de Certeau's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the concepts of laziness, morality, and the nature of work. By juxtaposing the lazy man with the dying man, he challenges traditional notions of productivity and worth, prompting us to reconsider our attitudes towards idleness and the value of human life. This quote invites us to engage in a deeper ethical and philosophical exploration of labor, agency, and the complex interplay between morality and work.